Jacek Mikosz

Originating from Kraków, Poland, I began my educational journey in Architecture but soon felt a bit disconnected due to the lack of influence on the results. I found myself stuck in creating visualizations and renders without being challenged by real-world constraints. The competitive environment of architecture initially drew me in but quickly revealed its limitations, prompting my shift toward the dynamic field of industrial design. I simultaneously pursued dual degrees in Architecture and Industrial Design Engineering, which equipped me with a diverse toolkit—perfect for a generalist like myself. I've always approached things with a maker and designer mentality, even before I defined it as design. When I learned about the world of design, everything clicked into place. The blend of creativity and problem-solving that design offers truly motivates me. It's not just about making things look good; it's about improving functionality, enhancing experiences, and providing new insights that can lead to real-world improvements. The feeling of seeing my ideas come to life and help others is incredibly rewarding, and that’s what drives my passion for design. Designing allows me to combine my interests in art, technology, and helping others, which is why I pursued it as a career.

FindAir, focuses on designing innovative medical devices, particularly those involved in smart monitoring and data capturing. Our primary product is the Smarthaler, a modular inhaler that integrates advanced technology to provide real-time feedback and improve user inhalation techniques. In addition to the Smarthaler, we also develop smart add-ons for monitoring, designed to enhance existing inhalers with advanced data capturing and analysis capabilities. These add-ons help create a comprehensive picture of bio-behavioral data, capturing aspects of behavior that strongly influence biological performance. FindAir is a multidisciplinary team of specialists from various fields, including design, medical, IT, artificial intelligence, and pharmacokinetics. We collaborate extensively, combining our expertise to create products that bridge the gap between technology and healthcare. Our goal is to enhance patient outcomes and provide a deeper understanding of complex health data.

Design is a vehicle for creating change in the environment, society, or behavior. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about solving problems and improving functionality. Design is a skill and a tool that enables us to develop solutions for better communication, optimized workflows, and enhanced creativity. At its core, design is about making a positive impact and improving the way we interact with the world around us. It's a process of turning ideas into tangible solutions that can make a real difference in people's lives. Whether it's through a simple, elegant product or a complex, innovative device, design is about understanding the needs of users and crafting experiences that are both functional and meaningful.

I am passionate about creating innovative solutions that address real-world challenges. Designing smart medical devices allows me to combine my interests in technology, user experience, and health to create products that are both functional and impactful. In the future, I wish to design more of these innovative medical devices, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible to enhance patient outcomes and deepen our understanding of complex health data.

When I'm exploring new ideas and experimenting with different approaches. This often happens during the early stages of a project when possibilities are endless, and I'm free to think outside the box. Late nights or early mornings, when the world is quiet, are also prime times for creativity.

I often feel a blend of anxiety and excitement—anxious because of the enormous possibilities and the pressure to make the right choices, but also excited about the potential of what could be created. The limitless options can be overwhelming, yet they also offer a lot of opportunities to explore new ideas and push boundaries.

I feel a deep connection to the product, almost like a parent. There's a sense of pride and accomplishment seeing my ideas come to life. However, it's also accompanied by a bit of worry. I wonder if the product will perform at its best and how it will be received and used by others.

Successful design transforms the user’s experience, creating a unique and unexpected relationship with the product. It should solve real-world problems and improve the way people interact with their environment.

A good design should be easy to use and intuitive for its target audience. Next, I look at its functionality to ensure it effectively solves the problem it was designed for. The attention to detail is also crucial; a clear sense of care and precision in its creation.

Designers have the power to shape the world around us, and with that power comes the responsibility to ensure their work benefits society and respects the environment. They Should also consider the long-term effects of their products on users and communities. This means creating designs that are safe, and accessible, and improve the quality of life. Additionally, designers have a role in driving innovation that addresses societal challenges,

We're seeing a shift from traditional design methods to more interdisciplinary and collaborative processes. Technology, such as AI and generative design, is enabling designers to explore new forms and functionalities that were previously unimaginable. In the future, I believe design will become even more integrated with technology, focusing on creating seamless experiences that enhance everyday life. Sustainability will continue to be a critical focus, with designers finding innovative ways to minimize environmental impact and promote circular economies. Additionally, the role of the designer will expand beyond creating products to shaping systems and services that address complex global challenges. The future of design is about being agents of change, using our skills to drive meaningful and impactful solutions that benefit society and the environment. This means not just serving existing industries but also starting our own ventures and engaging more in social issues, leveraging our unique perspectives to create a better world.

I immerse myself in different disciplines and experiences. I draw, paint, perform, and explore various forms of art and expression. This not only broadens my perspective but also helps me approach design challenges with a fresh and open mind.

The main characteristics of my design style include a clean and minimal aesthetic, attention to detail, and a commitment to sustainability. I believe that good design should not only look good but also perform exceptionally well and be environmentally responsible. Creating universal and reusable devices or parts helps reduce some of the costs and risks associated with the development process. This approach is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized companies, allowing them to leverage economies of scale and reduce future development costs. Universal and reusable components also have the advantage of being thoroughly tested and proven in various applications.

I live in Kraków, Poland, a city rich in history and cultural heritage. The Polish design philosophy, known for its practicality, resourcefulness, and emphasis on simplicity, significantly influences my work. Polish design often emphasizes minimalism and functionality, avoiding unnecessary complexity. This approach aligns with my philosophy of creating user-centered and functional designs. However, there are also challenges. Limited access to cutting-edge technology and funding compared to some other countries can be a constraint. Small and medium-sized companies in Poland often face higher risks and costs in the development process. This is why creating universal and reusable devices or parts is particularly beneficial.

My primary focus is on solving problems and creating value. I strive to understand their specific needs and challenges, and then develop designs that address those issues effectively. By closely collaborating with the company's team, I ensure that the solutions we create are practical, innovative, and aligned with their goals.

Everyone has their own unique way of seeing the world, and it's crucial to find your voice. You might never have a moment where everything clicks perfectly, and that's okay. My advice? Don’t limit yourself. Dive into different disciplines, even those outside your core talents. Every experience you have will expand your perspective and sharpen your main skills. Embrace the chaos, experiment fearlessly, and let those diverse experiences shape your own distinctive design style. Be open to learning from everything and everyone around you. Failures and challenges are just as important as successes because they teach you resilience and adaptability. Stay curious, always ask questions, and never stop exploring new ideas.

Problem-solving skills are essential for addressing challenges and finding effective solutions. Attention to detail ensures precision and quality in the final product. Communication skills are vital for conveying ideas clearly and collaborating effectively with team members and clients. Adaptability is crucial, as the design field is constantly evolving, requiring designers to learn new tools and techniques. Empathy is key, enabling designers to understand and prioritize user needs and experiences, which is fundamental for creating truly impactful designs.

I allocate specific blocks of time for different stages of the design process, such as research, prototyping, and testing. This helps me stay organized and maintain a steady workflow. Collaboration and delegation are also key; working with a team allows us to share the workload and leverage each other's strengths.

The time it takes to finalize a design project can vary greatly. It can take anywhere from one day to a couple of years, depending on the complexity and scope of the project. While I aim to complete projects quickly, the limitations of the manufacturing industry often dictate the timeline. Each project is unique, and factors such as research, prototyping, testing, and iterations all influence the overall duration.

I am especially excited about scaling FindAir and its products. The company itself is like a design project, requiring constant innovation, improvisation, and refinement on a daily basis. Treating the company as a product means we are always working to improve and define it further.

I work as part of a team. While I bring my own ideas and expertise to the table, collaboration is key to our success. Working with a multidisciplinary team allows us to combine different perspectives and skill sets, leading to more innovative and effective designs. Together, we brainstorm, prototype, test, and refine our ideas to create the best possible solutions.

People can contact me through LinkedIn or Instagram, or reach out via the contact information provided on the FindAir website. I'm always open to connecting and discussing design, collaboration opportunities, and innovative projects.

I have been in the design industry for over a decade, starting my journey in architecture before transitioning to industrial design. Originating from Kraków, Poland, I initially pursued degrees in Architecture and Industrial Design Engineering, which equipped me with a diverse toolkit—perfect for a generalist like myself. This background allowed me to combine my interests in art, technology, and problem-solving, forming the foundation of my design philosophy. FindAir, the company I co-founded, is a multidisciplinary team of specialists from fields such as design, medical, IT, artificial intelligence, and pharmacokinetics. Together, we create products that bridge the gap between technology and healthcare, enhancing patient outcomes and providing a deeper understanding of complex health data. Over the years, I have worked with various companies and clients, focusing primarily on innovative medical devices. One of my most notable projects is the Smarthaler, a modular inhaler that integrates advanced technology to provide real-time feedback and improve user inhalation techniques. In addition to the Smarthaler, I have developed smart add-ons for monitoring, designed to enhance existing inhalers with advanced data capturing and analysis capabilities.

The drive to become a designer was largely internal, fueled by a desire to create meaningful change and solve real-world problems through design. However, my interest in design was also influenced by observing the challenges faced by those around me. The motivation to design comes from the satisfaction of seeing ideas come to life and make a tangible impact. Each project teaches me something new and keeps me excited about the possibilities of design. Whether through education, work experience, or personal inspiration, my path to becoming a designer has been driven by a constant quest to create solutions that improve lives and contribute to society in meaningful ways.

My approach to a new project starts with thorough research and understanding the problem at hand. I rely heavily on both digital tools and physical models. CAD and CFD analysis help in precision and functionality, while 3D printing and physical mock-ups allow for tangible testing and user feedback.

I experience a mix of emotions that range from excitement to a bit of anxiety. The initial phase, where ideas are flowing freely and possibilities seem endless, is particularly exhilarating. It's a time of exploration and creativity, where I get to push the boundaries of what's possible and imagine innovative solutions to problems. As the design process progresses, there's a sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing my ideas take shape and evolve into tangible concepts. Each iteration brings me closer to the final product, and there's a thrill in witnessing the transformation from concept to reality. However, there's also a level of anxiety that accompanies the process, especially when faced with the responsibility of creating something that meets the needs and expectations of users. The pressure to make the right choices and deliver a successful outcome can be daunting at times.

I've found that certain non-design skills are indispensable. Problem-solving, for instance, has been crucial in navigating the complexities of design challenges. Effective communication ensures that ideas are conveyed clearly, fostering collaboration and successful outcomes. Adaptability is key in a constantly evolving design landscape, allowing me to stay ahead of the curve. And empathy, well, that's at the heart of it all. Understanding the user's needs and experiences drives me to create designs that truly resonate and make a difference.

I hope i will have a chance to continue to push the boundaries of design innovation, striving to create solutions that positively impact people's lives. In the future, I'm excited to explore projects that integrate emerging technologies with human-centered design principles, unlocking new possibilities for enhancing experiences and driving positive change.

Mistakes are part of learning, so don't let them hold you back. Second, keep learning. Whether it's in school or on your own, keep soaking up knowledge and improving your skills. Third, take risks. Sometimes the best opportunities come from trying something new. And lastly, find people who can help you grow. Mentors and supportive friends can make a big difference. Oh, and one more thing: Stay curious. Always be asking questions and exploring new ideas.

For me, good design is defined by its ability to solve problems efficiently while also delighting users with its form and function. When evaluating a design, I look for coherence, where every aspect works together harmoniously to create a seamless experience.

I follow the work of people like Neri Oxman and Olafur Eliasson. They shape the art of design in the most unique and impactful ways, seamlessly blending form, science, innovation, and art. Their ability to push boundaries and play with these elements is truly inspiring.

I want to design and produce things at lightning speed, going from concept to finished product in just one or two weeks. Imagine the rapid innovation and immediate feedback we could achieve by turning ideas into reality under such fast conditions.

Originating from Kraków, Poland, I began my educational journey in Architecture but soon felt a bit disconnected due to the lack of influence on the results. I found myself stuck in creating visualizations and renders without being challenged by real-world constraints. The competitive environment of architecture initially drew me in but quickly revealed its limitations, prompting my shift toward the dynamic field of industrial design. I simultaneously pursued dual degrees in Architecture and Industrial Design Engineering, which equipped me with a diverse toolkit—perfect for a generalist like myself.

One of the most interesting aspects of design for me is its ability to create meaningful change and make a tangible impact on people's lives. What truly motivates me is the blend of creativity and problem-solving that design offers. It's not just about making things look good; it's about improving functionality, enhancing experiences, and providing new insights that can lead to real-world improvements. The feeling of seeing my ideas come to life and help others is incredibly rewarding. I enjoy the challenge of turning concepts into practical solutions. Each project teaches me something new, which keeps me excited and eager to learn more. This constant learning and the ability to make a real difference are what drive my passion for design.

I was always approaching things with a maker and designer mentality, but I didn't initially define it as design. When I learned about the world of design, everything clicked into place. I’ve always been passionate about creativity and problem-solving, and I love the challenge of turning ideas into practical solutions. Designing allows me to combine my interests in art, technology, and helping others, which is why I pursued it as a career.

I currently focus on designing medical devices, particularly those involved in smart monitoring and data capturing. These devices aim to create a comprehensive picture of bio-behavioral data, capturing aspects of behavior that strongly influence biological performance. In the future, I wish to design more of these innovative medical devices that bridge the gap between technology and healthcare, improving patient outcomes and enhancing our understanding of complex health data.

Everyone has their own unique way of seeing the world, and it's crucial to find your voice. You might never have a moment where it all clicks, and that's okay. My advice? Don’t limit yourself. Dive into different disciplines, even those outside your core talents. Every experience you have will expand your perspective and make your main skills even sharper. Embrace the chaos, experiment fearlessly, and let those diverse experiences shape your own distinctive design style.

From what I’ve experienced, the biggest difference between a good designer and a great designer is like in chess. Great designers can see several moves ahead and anticipate the consequences of their decisions. They think strategically, foresee potential challenges, and modify the plan accordingly. Also, they are not scared of taking risks.

To evaluate a great design, I look for three things. First, it needs to be incredibly easy to use. Second, there should be a clear sense of care and attention to detail from the maker. Finally, it should transform your experience with the product, creating a unique and unexpected relationship with it—something you never thought you'd have, but now can't imagine doing without.

Good design creates new market opportunities. People are drawn to well-designed products, even those they might not have considered before. Simply put, good design expands your consumer base and builds loyalty if you consistently deliver high-quality products. Investing in good design not only attracts more customers but also keeps them coming back, driving long-term success.

If I had the time, I would design for people in need, focusing on how a newly designed object can change even a small aspect of their lives. While I do this currently, I'd love to work in even finer detail to solve bigger problems for smaller groups of people. It’s about making a meaningful impact, one thoughtful design at a time.

My dream project isn’t about a specific design—it’s about transforming the workflow. I want to design and produce things at lightning speed, going from concept to finished product in just one or two weeks. Imagine the rapid innovation and immediate feedback we could achieve by turning ideas into reality under such fast conditions.

I don't think there's just one secret recipe, but having deep insight might be the closest thing. Understanding the problem, the users, and the context on a profound level allows you to create truly effective and meaningful decisions.

I follow the work of people like Neri Oxman and Olafur Eliasson. They shape the art of design in the most unique and impactful ways, seamlessly blending form, science, innovation, and art. Their ability to push boundaries and play with these elements is truly inspiring.

I admire the simplicity of Dieter Rams' products. They capture a fundamental truth about the design field: good design is honest, functional, and unobtrusive. His work embodies these principles, showing that simplicity can be incredibly powerful and effective

I am really proud of what we achieved with the Smarthaler project. We developed a new flow sensing technology that allowed us to minimize the form factor of a smart inhaler. This innovation enabled us to maintain the functionality and ergonomics of a typical pMDI inhaler, making it both efficient and user-friendly. These aspects are what make this design truly great.

To become better designers, people should stay curious and explore everything they can. Try many different activities like drawing, painting, performing, acting, and dancing. These experiences expand your way of thinking and help you understand the world from different perspectives. This is what I did to improve myself as a designer.

If I hadn’t become a designer, I would have pursued my deep interests in performance, choreography, or other forms of creation, such as filmmaking.

Design is a vehicle for creating change in the environment, society, or behavior. It's a skill and a tool that enables you to develop solutions for better communication, optimized workflows, and enhanced creativity. For me, design is all about making a positive impact and improving the way we interact with the world around us.